Sexual abuse and rape are two different offenses. While rape can be categorized as a form of sexual abuse, it’s a whole other case of its own. The main difference between sexual abuse and rape is that the latter typically involves penetration. Both, however, are similar in that the acts involved happen without the consent of the victim.
If you or a person you know has experienced sexual abuse or rape or you’re wondering what to do if you’re wrongfully accused of sex abuse, contact a South Carolina sexual abuse attorney from Strom Law immediately.
What Is Sexual Abuse?
Sexual abuse describes sexual behavior committed toward a person, especially minors, without their consent. If someone forces another person into sexual interactions or performs sexual acts without consent, particularly over some time, this is considered sexual abuse.
Common instances of sexual abuse include:
Indecent Exposure
Any person who deliberately exposes themself to another in a provocative way commits sexual abuse. This includes showing their genitals and acts of masturbation (i.e. touching themselves).
Sexual Contact
Sexual contact without consent, from groping to fondling to direct intercourse, is sexual abuse. Any time a person sexually touches another without their consent, they are committing sexual abuse.
Obscene Messages and Photographs
Whenever a person is receiving unwanted sexual messages or photographs, whether via social media, text, video messaging, email, or other digital platforms, they are experiencing sexual abuse.
Sex Trafficking
Human trafficking is already a prevalent problem that, by itself, is considered a very heinous crime. Unfortunately, many victims of human trafficking are also forced into the sex trade, which escalates the crime into sex trafficking. These people are used for their bodies and are often made victims of sexual acts without their consent.
Pornography
Pornography is a form of sexual abuse as it victimizes a person, not just at the time of recording but continuously as the material is distributed and watched over and over again online.
What Is Rape?
Rape is defined as any act of sexual penetration without permission, regardless of how brief the encounter is. This includes penetration using objects.
Though many people think that rape only involves strangers forcing themselves on one another, the reality is that it often occurs between people who know each other. Rape is even commonly seen in family settings.
Statutory Rape
Statutory rape is a separate and distinct type of rape. It involves sexual intercourse or activity with a minor under the age of consent, which is generally eighteen years of age. In many cases of statutory rape, the victim may have willingly participated in the act, but because the law deems the minor incapable of legally consenting to sex, the conduct is still considered rape and is subject to strict criminal liability.
What to Do If You’ve Been a Victim of Sexual Abuse
Being a victim of sexual abuse, whether of rape or another form of assault, is a traumatic experience that requires serious intervention. If you or a loved one have experienced any form of non-consensual sexual act, here are some things that you should do:
Find Support
Contact the relevant authorities and support groups to help you get through the situation. You may want to report the crime to the police to catch the perpetrator or you might want to seek help from groups that can guide you as you process the experience.
Consider Medical Options
Many cases of sexual abuse may lead to physical and mental ailments, and it’s important to find safety by considering medical options to combat any adverse effects. Don’t be afraid to consult a doctor or approach a therapist.
Seek Legal Aid
All forms of sexual abuse are considered crimes. You may want to explore your legal options so that you can bring justice to the situation and may even receive compensation for any damages made to you. If opting to file a case against your perpetrator, be sure to find an attorney you can trust to be by your side every step of the way.
Sexual Abuse Lawyers from Strom Law
At Strom Law, we’re ready to help you seek justice in any instance of sexual abuse, including rape. If you’re a victim of sexual abuse–or know someone who is–reach out to one of our highly skilled sexual abuse lawyers in South Carolina today!
